For centuries, Chinese porcelain has captivated collectors worldwide with its delicate beauty and rich symbolism. Among the most prized techniques is doucai, a painstaking process that literally translates to "interlocking colors."
Developed during the Xuande reign (1426-1435) of the Ming dynasty, doucai involves underglaze blue outlines and vibrant overglaze enamels fired at a lower temperature.
This allows for a breathtaking palette and intricate details, making it perfect for depicting auspicious themes.
The Enduring Legend of the Eight Immortals
The Eight Immortals, or Baxian in Chinese, represent individuals who transcended mortality through exceptional virtue, wisdom, or mastery of the Tao (the Way). Their tales vary, but a core group often appears:
1. Li Tieguai (Iron-Crutch Li): A hermit known for his magical staff and ability to transfer his spirit into different bodies.
2. Zhongli Quan (Han Zhongli): A banished official who became a powerful immortal, often depicted with a fan symbolizing revival and banishment of evil.
3. Lü Dongbin (Lü the Wanderer): A scholar and swordsman associated with health and longevity, usually carrying a sword and a peach.
4. He Xiangu (He the Immortal Maiden): A celestial maiden who defied societal expectations by refusing marriage and achieved immortality through devotion to Taoism.
5. Lan Caihe (Lan Caihe the Boy): A personification of youth and carefree spirit, often portrayed as a young man carrying a basket of flowers.
6. Tieguai Li (Iron-Gua Li): A mischievous immortal said to reside in the Eight Trigrams Mountain and carry a magical gourd capable of holding vast amounts of medicine or wine.
7. Han Xiangzi (Han the Immortal Flute Player): A nephew of the Eight Trigrams Master, often depicted with a jade flute that can summon magical creatures.
8. Cao Guojiu (Cao the Drunken Immortal): A jovial figure said to have achieved immortality through his love of wine, usually carrying a jug and a cup.
These immortals are not just individuals; they represent aspirations deeply embedded in Chinese culture: health, longevity, wisdom, and defying the limitations of the mortal world.
So, which of these 12 beauties caught your eye?
https://en.thevalue.com/articles/sothebys-hong-kong-nicolas-chow-european-collection-chinese-ceramics-acquired-from-edward-t-chow-2024-spring
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